The long-term goal of the project is the development of platforms as a replacement or addition to satellites. The high flying altitude (>15km) implies no influence of clouds on the generation of solar power and no interference with commercial air traffic. The possibility to quickly deploy and replace the aircraft is a huge advantage compared to satellites.
ELHASPA, Electric High Altitude Solar Powered Aircraft
Preparation for a flight experiment
ELHASPA is a demonstration and research vehicle to advance technology and test applications for infinite high altitude solar flight. Many problems from aerodynamics over thermal management to guidance complicate the task.
The aircraft and its systems are developed and manufactured in cooperation with several companies of the aerospace industry including EADS-Astrium, EADS-Cassidian, Steinbeis Flugzeug- und Leichtbau GmbH and Roedelmodell.
The key aspects for DLR Institute of Robotics and Mechatronics are:
The first phase of the project succeeded with the first flight on November 13, 2011
Aircraft Specifications
First flight of solar airplane ELHASPA on November 13, 2011.